Pet Ownership

In Morinville, we promote responsible pet ownership to enhance our community's enjoyment. Please see the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw for detailed information.

Changes to Responsible Pet Ownership

On August 26, 2025, Council approved amendments to the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, replacing the license requirement with a new rule: all cats and dogs must wear a visible identification tag starting January 1, 2026. The tag must display the owner’s current phone number and/or address.  

Pet Ownership Bylaw Changes

Owning a cat/dog

All cats/dogs must wear a personalized ID tag with current contact information. The tag identifies your cat/dog if found at large.

Your dog:

  • Must be on a leash when on public property (unless you are in an off-leash area)
  • Is not allowed on playgrounds, splash parks or any other location marked with a ‘no dog' sign
  • Is not permitted to excessively bark, howl or make other noise disturbing any person
  • You are required to pick up after your dog: When out with your dog, you’re required to carry a bag or another item for cleaning up after them, and a Peace Officer may ask to see it. Disposal bags are also available along walking trails and throughout the community.

Your cat:

  • Must be on a leash when on public property
  • Cats found at large may be impounded by residents or by a Peace Officer
  • There are fines and fees associated with having your cat found at large

For all other restrictions, please see the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw.

Pets must wear an ID tag whenever they are outside the owner’s property. The tag must include a current phone number and/or address. 

ID tags can be purchased from any pet store, online shop or any other place of your choice.

No. Morinville does not supply or sell ID tags.

Yes. Owners with three or more dogs or cats must still apply for a harbouring application for approval.

Officers will use the contact information on the ID tag to reach you. If they cannot reach you, your pet will be taken to the pound.

Officers will try to reunite your pet with you. If ownership cannot be confirmed, your pet will be taken to the pound for safe keeping and fines may be issued.

Officers will attempt to locate you, but if the information is outdated and ownership cannot be confirmed, your pet will be taken to the pound and fines may be issued.

A microchip is strongly encouraged, but all cats and dogs must still wear a visible ID tag. Microchips provide a secure, permanent form of identification.

Lost and found pets

Contact Enforcement Services at 780-939-7831, or pound services at 780-939-3133.

  • If you find a pet with an up to date tag you may be able to reunite the animal with its owner or;
  • Call Enforcement Services at 780-939-7831
  • If outside of business hours you can call pound services at 780-939-3133

Unique and other animals

Any domesticated animal such as chickens that are not a cat or dog.

Unique Animal Ownership Applications must be submitted and conditions met before permit approval including payment of a $100 Unique Animal Ownership fee.

*Filling out and submitting the application does not mean it is approved.

Cat trap rentals

  • Cats are not allowed to be at large.
  • Enforcement Services offers free cat trap rentals during warmer months when temperatures stay above 0 degrees. If you would like a trap, call 780-939-7831 or contact us.
  • Use of traps during months when temperatures reach below 0 degrees is strictly prohibited.
  • The use of private traps in Morinville is strictly prohibited.

*Traps are available based on space at pound services.

Contact Us

Town of Morinville
10125 100 Ave.
Morinville, AB T8R 1L6
Phone: 780-939-4361

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